Indian Grandmaster Koneru Humpy proved her brilliance and poise once again in the global platform by edging China’s Lei Tingjie in a nail-biting tiebreak at the FIDE Women’s Chess World Cup. Having played out two gruelling draws in the classical time control, Humpy delivered on the big stage in the rapid playoff to reach the final, preparing for a milestone all-Indian encounter with Divya Deshmukh.
What a historic moment for Indian Chess. We have an All-Indian Final set up at the FIDE Women's World Chess Cup 2025 – Grandmaster Koneru Humpy vs International Master Divya Deshmukh!
No matter the result, we will get to see India clinch Gold at Batumi in a few days. Both of the… pic.twitter.com/lba09A5nj3---Advertisement---— ChessBase India (@ChessbaseIndia) July 24, 2025
A Gritty Path to the Final
The semifinal match between Lei and Humpy was a real test of mental toughness and strategic excellence. After a closely contested classical phase, Humpy faltered in the first game of the tiebreak, losing early. But in an exhilarating exhibition of determination and tactical acumen, she fought back with consecutive victories in the next two games, winning the match 2-1 on the tiebreak series.
Her comeback from adversity once again illustrated why she is still among the best chess minds in the world. Maneuvering intricate positions with ease and precision, Humpy’s experience was critical in one of the most crucial games of the tournament.
A Historic All-Indian Final
With Humpy’s victory, the last round now sees two Indian women, Koneru Humpy and Divya Deshmukh, competing for the coveted title. This is a historical milestone in Indian chess, highlighting India’s increasing dominance in women’s chess.
Both women have had masterful performances all tournament long. While Humpy relied on her rich reservoir of experience and cool-headed decision-making, the brash and ambitious Divya Deshmukh added flair and passion to the board. Their encounter in the final is set to be a battle of generations, with both women set to give it everything they have in the quest for glory.
Qualification for the Women’s Candidates Tournament
Making the final also secured both Deshmukh and Humpy a highly sought position in the Women’s Candidates Tournament, a turning point on the path to competing for the title of Women’s World Championship. It is a landmark achievement not just for the players but also for Indian chess, which keeps churning out world-class talent and making its presence felt on the global stage.
As the nation and the world waits with bated breath for the grand finale, this moment is one of triumph for India’s emerging status as a chess power. Whether India wins or loses, the final will be an moment of pride for Indian sport and proof of its players’ determination, prowess, and pluck.
